Craddock cites financial woes, withdraws from mayoral race

Citing an inability to raise sufficient funds, Metro Councilman Michael Craddock has withdrawn from the mayor’s race, leaving Mayor Karl Dean with no serious challengers standing in the way of a second term.

“After prayerful consideration and speaking with my wife and advisers, I have decided to withdraw from the mayor’s race,” Craddock said in a statement Thursday. “Even though I was asked repeatedly by a large number of people to enter the race, I am faced with making this difficult, but correct, decision.”

Mayoral candidates had until last Thursday to qualify for the Aug. 4 election. They had until today to withdraw.

Craddock, one of Dean’s fiercest critics on the council, faced long odds to unseat the mayor, who enjoyed a massive financial advantage. In April, Dean reported having $525,000 campaign cash on hand, compared to Craddock’s $8,700.

Craddock, term-limited from his Madison-area council seat, also still has $20,000 in debt from last year’s unsuccessful Davidson County Criminal Court Clerk race.

“It is widely understood that it takes significant financial backing to run a legitimate campaign, especially against an incumbent,” Craddock said. “I was unable to raise those funds. That’s the harsh reality of politics. While I believe the debate would have contributed significantly to the democratic process, this belief cannot compel me to put my family through a tough campaign.”

In a statement issued by his campaign, Dean thanked Craddock for his service.

"I know Councilman Craddock has a passion for public service and a passion for this wonderful city — something we both share," he said. "While we don't always agree on issues, I appreciate his dedication and service to the people of Nashville."

Other candidates who have qualified to run are Marvin Barnes, Bruce Casper and James Keeton.

15 Comments on this post:

Large number of supporters, eh? What did each one contribute 50 cents?

By:i.am.a.taxpayer on 5/26/11 at 2:28

While I do not agree with some of Mr. Craddock's political views, I believe he tries to do what he thinks is right. I wish only the kindest regards to Mr. Craddock and his family.

By:global_citizen on 5/26/11 at 5:18

Repeatedly asked by a large number of people??? Yeah, right. Craddock is so full of it. Outside of his mom and wife, I can't imagine anyone really supported him much less pleaded with him to run. Craddock is a VIP in his own mind, but a serious lightweight (metaphorically speaking only, of course) when it comes to being a politician.

By:rainessl on 5/26/11 at 7:13

hope a better job is done if he wins 2nd term.

By:Writeman on 5/26/11 at 7:44

Now that Craddock is out of the picture, let me be the first to say, "Congratulations, Karl" on your second term!

By:govskeptic on 5/27/11 at 5:52

We attempt to call ourselves a world class city and can't even
field two decent candidates for Mayor? Mayor Dean can now
redirect all those hired for this race to assist all his
council supporters that may have opposition!

By:treehugger7 on 5/27/11 at 6:15

govskeptic--who would you like to see run? That's a serious question. While I don't always agree with you, you seem thoughtful and intelligent.

By:global_citizen on 5/27/11 at 7:08

Hey, let's not forget, that homeless gay man is also running. His name is... ah, it escapes me at the moment.

By:fdanshep on 5/27/11 at 7:22

Mr. Craddock has come to the realization that while you can fool some of the people some of the time (Constituents of Madison) you can't fool all of the people all of the time (Metro Voters) Likely a very nice man but no more qualified to be Mayor of this city than...... well I can't think of a specific person right now...

By:budlight on 5/27/11 at 7:23

govskeptic on 5/27/11 at 6:52
We attempt to call ourselves a world class city and can't even
field two decent candidates for Mayor? Mayor Dean can now
redirect all those hired for this race to assist all his
council supporters that may have opposition!

It's hard to run against someone who is rich! Dean bought the first round. I drank his coolaid one time, but will not again. I want my $100 back, Karl!

By:budlight on 5/27/11 at 7:24

When the goons at city hall brought in trash pickup in Antioch no local vendors were allowed to have any of the contracts. They are all out of state. How does that help Tennesseans. Good old boy, Dean!

By:bfra on 5/27/11 at 9:46

Karl, known for buying what he wants, likes to have his way & wife's money backs him up. Fairground referendum will be on the ballot (could hurt Karl), Craddock cites financial woes, at last min. drops out of race. Smells very fishy!

By:kamaliman87 on 5/27/11 at 5:06

"Bfra," you have a valid point there, very fishy. The media has their favorites and I believe it's opinionated to say "Metro Councilman Michael Craddock has withdrawn from the mayor’s race, leaving Mayor Karl Dean with no serious challengers standing in the way of a second term." I believe we can think for ourselves, all we needed to know is the facts, we all need to decide with everyone running in consideration, DEAN IS NOT THE ONLY OPTION!